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Sago Pondweed

Potamogeton pectinatus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Sago Pondweed (Potamogeton pectinatus)
Photo: (c) Igor Balashov, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Igor Balashov

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

12"–48" H × 12"–48" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

WY

Sago pondweed is an aquatic perennial that grows submerged in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. This native plant produces small spikes of flowers above the water surface during summer months. It requires consistently wet conditions and is not suitable for typical landscape settings.

In an HOA neighborhood

Sago Pondweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

  • Requires permanent standing water
  • Not suitable for standard residential landscapes
  • Would appear dead or absent in typical planting beds

Wildlife value

Provides important habitat and food for waterfowl, with seeds and tubers eaten by ducks and other aquatic birds. The submerged vegetation offers shelter for fish and aquatic invertebrates.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Sago Pondweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.